Six timeless classics that capture childhood with wonder, grit and imagination

Showtime revisits timeless films for Children’s Day. It is celebrated on Nov 14.

The Traveller (1974)

This Abbas Kiarostami classic is about a school boy who is neglected by his parents. All he dreams of is to accumulate enough money to take a bus ride to a big city and watch his favourite soccer team play. If he has to lie and steal, he will.
On Mubi

Kummatty (1979)

Based on folklore, G Aravindan’s film tells the tale of a mysterious wanderer who visits a village in Kerala. He turns all the children into animals using his sorcery. Through a surrealistic narrative, the film talks about compassion and empathy.
Restored version on YouTube

Bettada Hoovu (1985)

Directed by N Lakshminarayan, ‘Bettada Hoovu’ is about Ramu, a poor boy who goes on an expedition to hunt for a mountain flower to earn money to buy a book. 
On SunNxt

Cinema Paradiso (1988)

When a film projectionist from his native town dies, Salvatore, a famous movie director returns after 30 years.

He reminisces about his childhood, his relationship with the projectionist and how he fell in love with cinema. It is directed by Giuseppe Tornatore.
On Amazon Rentals 

The White Balloon (1995)

Director Jafar Panahi follows a seven-year-old girl, who pleads with her mother to buy her a goldfish. When her mother finally gives her the money, she loses it in the market.  On YouTube

Children of Heaven (1997) 

Directed by the legendary filmmaker Majid Majidi, ‘Children of Heaven’ follows Ali’s attempts to get a new pair of shoes for his little sister Zahra, after he misplaces her shoes at a grocery store. 
On Apple T V